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  2. ICD-10-CM Codes List
  3. C00–D49
  4. C30-C39
  5. Malignant neoplasm of larynx (C32)

Malignant neoplasm of larynx (C32)

The ICD-10 code C32 and its detailed subcodes classify and specify types of malignant neoplasms of the larynx, a critical structure in the throat. These codes are used to accurately identify cancer locations within different laryngeal regions for diagnosis, treatment planning, and medical documentation.

This section includes codes like C32.0 for malignant tumors of the glottis, also known as primary carcinoma of the vocal cords, and C32.1 for supraglottic cancers, which cover areas such as the false vocal cords and epiglottis. The C32.2 code targets malignancies in the subglottis, and C32.3 covers cancers of the laryngeal cartilages, including the arytenoid and thyroid cartilages. When tumors overlap multiple laryngeal sites, C32.8 is applicable. If the cancer is diagnosed without a specified site, C32.9 is used as an unspecified larynx malignancy code. Understanding these distinctions helps both healthcare professionals and coders relate common names like "carcinoma of vocal cord" or "squamous cell carcinoma of supraglottis" to the precise ICD-10 codes for clear communication and accurate records.

Instructional Notations

Use Additional Code

The “use additional code” indicates that a secondary code could be used to further specify the patient’s condition. This note is not mandatory and is only used if enough information is available to assign an additional code.

  • code to identify:
  • alcohol abuse and dependence F10
  • exposure to environmental tobacco smoke Z77.22
  • exposure to tobacco smoke in the perinatal period P96.81
  • history of tobacco dependence Z87.891
  • occupational exposure to environmental tobacco smoke Z57.31
  • tobacco dependence F17
  • tobacco use Z72.0

Clinical Terms

The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.

Epiglottis

A thin leaf-shaped cartilage that is covered with LARYNGEAL MUCOSA and situated posterior to the root of the tongue and HYOID BONE. During swallowing, the epiglottis folds back over the larynx inlet thus prevents foods from entering the airway.

Glottis

The vocal apparatus of the larynx, situated in the middle section of the larynx. Glottis consists of the VOCAL FOLDS and an opening (rima glottidis) between the folds.